The US has made a positive step forward in recent years thanks to a change in its stance on sports betting. Many sports fans across the country were already placing real money wagers at off-shore sites, and the Supreme Court found that the ruling against sports wagering was unconstitutional. As a result, the laws have now been changed, and states are free to set their own regulations on this market.
Since the Supreme Court ruling in 2018, many states across the country have now changed their position on sports betting. As the revenue rolls in, many more are following the trend. Although it wasn’t part of the early wave of states to legalize the betting market, VA has recently agreed to legislation regulating sports wagering in the state. You can find out more about the betting laws in Virginia as well as the types of gambling and restrictions in our guide below
Which Forms of Betting Are Allowed in Virginia?
The Old Dominion has strict rules on gambling that casinos, both in-person and online, are banned. Similarly, poker isn’t permitted in the state, and there are currently no plans to change this. However, the state does allow daily fantasy sports and recently voted to legalize sportsbooks too.
Governor Ralph Northam and state delegates agree to a bill that proposed sports betting in July 2020, and since then, residents and visitors to VA have been able to place real money wagers in-person and through an app or website. It wasn’t long before people all over the state were placing bets, and although it was late to the party, Virginia became the first state to exceed $1 billion in bets. Mobile wagering launched in January 2021, and many big-name sportsbooks have already opened up to bettors.
Betting Restrictions in Virginia
The biggest restriction in the Old Dominion is that all forms of casino gambling are banned. This includes poker and slots both online and in-person. The Virginia Lottery controls the gambling market in the state, and all sites must obtain a license from this organization to operate here. Initially, the sports wagering bill passed by state legislators permitted up to 12 licenses, but this was soon extended further to 18.
To place a legal real money wager on sports in VA, you’ll need to be at least 21 years old. If you’re betting through the internet, you’ll need to show a copy of your ID to verify your account as well as prove that you’re currently inside state lines. VA sportsbooks offer a wide range of events but won’t allow bets on any college game involving a VA college team. Live bets on any college game are also prohibited in the state.
Virginia Online Betting FAQ
Are Online Sportsbooks Legal In Virginia?
Yes, VA has now approved a law to allow online sportsbooks, and already, multiple sites have launched. If you’re betting in VA, you have a great range of options to choose from, including DraftKings, BetMGM, UniBet, and more.
Are Online Casinos Legal in Virginia?
No, online casinos and casino gaming, in general, aren’t allowed in the state. VA has fairly strict laws against gambling, and it doesn’t look like this will change anytime soon
Is Online Poker Legal in Virginia?
No, you can’t currently play poker online at a legal, licensed poker site while in VA. If you’re looking to play at a poker site, you’ll have to play at a sweepstake or offshore site.
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